Montgomery, AL – Country Crossing casino developer Ronnie Gilley says indicted state Sen. Harri Anne Smith was his best recruiter for votes for pro-gambling legislation and she frequently sought bribes for other legislators.
Gilley testified Wednesday that Smith of Slocomb sought money for Sen. Scott Beason, Rep. Benjamin Lewis and Sen. Kim Benefield in 2009 because she said it would help get their votes. Gilley said he didn't pay any of them. He said Smith again sought money for Beason and Sen. Steve French in 2010, but none was paid. He said Smith also wanted him to contribute money to her campaign account that she could pass out to other legislators.
Gilley, who pleaded guilty, testified for a fifth day Wednesday. His casino was in Smith's district.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)